Summary
Overview
Skills
Work History
Work Availability
Hi, I’m

Michael Drake

District Manager
South West
Michael Drake

Summary

Dedicated retail professional with twenty years of experience, adept at leveraging team-building and interpersonal skills in a dynamic, customer-centric retail environment. Proven track record of achieving business objectives while providing robust support to direct reports and driving the business forward.


Analytical problem-solver with talents for team building, leading and motivating, as well as excellent customer relations aptitude and relationship-building skills. Proficient in using independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success. Dedicated to applying training, monitoring and morale-building abilities to enhance employee engagement and boost performance.

Overview

20
years of professional experience

Skills

Multi-Site Management

Work History

Homesense
, South West & Wales

District Manager
1 2021 - 11.2024

Job overview

  • Managed district comprising of 10 stores, generating turnover of £35 million and managing a team of approximately 350 associates
  • Consistently exceed key performance indicators (KPIs) by fostering a high-performing team
  • Evaluated store performance regularly using data analysis tools to identify areas of improvement and implement targeted action plans for continuous growth.
  • Managed budget development process for the district, allocating resources effectively to drive growth while remaining fiscally responsible.
  • Oversaw successful store openings, coordinating logistics, staffing, training, and promotional efforts to ensure smooth transitions for new locations.
  • Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
  • Developed and executed comprehensive training programs for store managers, resulting in improved employee performance and customer satisfaction.
  • Fostered an environment of open communication between management teams across the district to share best practices in operations optimization and problem-solving techniques.
  • Reduced turnover rates by implementing proactive retention strategies designed to address potential employee concerns before they escalated into resignations or terminations.
  • Implemented risk-management protocols for loss prevention, leading to a consistent decrease in shrinkage rates across the district.
  • Ensured compliance with all company policies and procedures, conducting regular audits and training sessions.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction, conducting regular store visits to ensure compliance with service standards.
  • Monitored competitor activity, adapting strategies to maintain competitive advantage.
  • Maintained financial controls, planned business operations and control expenses while identifying and pursuing opportunities to grow business operations and boost profits.
  • Collaborated cross-functionally with headoffice, regional and other teams nationally to maintain consistent message and experience.

Homesense

Operations Manager
01.2019 - 01.2021

Job overview

  • Operations manager responsibilities included providing the Vice President with critical business updates and data intelligence, while ensuring a smooth and consistent operational rhythm and routine for Homesense
  • Partnered with the Homesense Assistant Vice Presidents (AVPs) and field team, collaborating closely with Head Office to ensure alignment between both functions
  • Supported Homesense projects, ensuring their delivery and execution aligned with the Vice President’s strategic vision. Facilitated smooth collaboration between departments through clear communication channels.
  • Covid taskforce, responsible for collection of all cases from the banner, investigations and actions put into place, supported by Risk and escalated to senior leadership team.
  • Analyzed and reported on key performance metrics to senior management.
  • Analyzed data trends to identify potential bottlenecks in operations workflow, implementing strategies to mitigate risks accordingly.
  • Managed inventory and supply chain operations to achieve timely and accurate delivery of goods and services.
  • Managed budgets effectively, consistently delivering projects on-time and within financial constraints.

Homesense

District Manager
01.2015 - 01.2019

Job overview

  • As Above

TK Maxx & Homesense

Store Manager
01.2013 - 01.2015

Job overview

  • Maintained a clean and organized store appearance to enhance the overall shopping experience for customers.
  • Completed routine store inventories.
  • Offered hands-on assistance to customers, assessing needs, and maintaining current knowledge of consumer preferences.
  • Reduced shrinkage levels by closely monitoring security measures, conducting staff training, and implementing loss prevention initiatives.
  • Collaborated with upper management to develop strategic plans for store growth and expansion.
  • Increased average transaction value by upselling products, promoting add-ons, and cross-selling complementary items.
  • Ensured compliance with company policies and local regulations regarding safety standards, licensing requirements, staff conduct in-store procedures.
  • Continuously assessed store layout to optimize product placement for enhanced visibility and impulse purchases from customers.
  • Boosted employee retention rates by fostering a positive work environment, providing growth opportunities.
  • Assisted with hiring, training and mentoring new staff members.
  • Managed store employees successfully in fast-paced environment through proactive communication and positive feedback.
  • Approved regular payroll submissions for employees.
  • Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
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Michael DrakeDistrict Manager